Just Gettin Started

[CAMO]

I have got 5 acres fenced and i want to have a few cows. Im just startin out with this and would like to know how many cows can i have in 5 acres. also what would be the best kind to just start out on? any other tips welcome too! thanks

 

[jerry27150]

you can probably keep a couple cows if you supplement with a little hay now & then unless it is good grass growing & you fertilize. is it hill or bottom. if bottom it will grow more. i would get somthing you like that has had one or two calves before & is gentle. you have a good sale barn close

 

[1848]

2 pair tops if you don't want to overgraze. Assuming youv'e got good grass

 

[SF]

Probably only 2 and may need to supplement with some hay. If you want more than two, you may want to consider smaller breeds.

 

[CAMO]

Its a feild with not much good grass mainly fescue. Thanks for the help!

 

[Medic24]

Good Luck! :cboy:

 

[Frankie]

I have got 5 acres fenced and i want to have a few cows. Im just startin out with this and would like to know how many cows can i have in 5 acres. also what would be the best kind to just start out on? any other tips welcome too! thanks

You can contact your local extension office for information on how many acres you need per cow in your area. "Carrying capacity" will vary from one region to another, depending on rain, type of forage, etc. Around my area, we figure 12 acres per cow/calf unit. If you're just planning to graze the cow through the summer and sell her, you won't need as much grass as if you're planning a year round operation. If you overgraze, it can permanently damage your grass. Cows eat 365 days a year. You will also need to consider some sort of handling facilities in case something gets sick and needs to be medicated or examined. Good luck...

 

[jerry27150]

frankie, up here in northern mo. they figure 1& 1/2 to 3 acres per cow -calf, depending on fertility